CVE-2011-0527 in vFabric tc Server
Summary
by MITRE
VMware vFabric tc Server (aka SpringSource tc Server) 2.0.x before 2.0.6.RELEASE and 2.1.x before 2.1.2.RELEASE accepts obfuscated passwords during JMX authentication, which makes it easier for context-dependent attackers to obtain access by leveraging an ability to read stored passwords.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/14/2018
VMware vFabric tc Server, also known as SpringSource tc Server, contains a significant authentication vulnerability that affects versions prior to 2.0.6.RELEASE in the 2.0.x series and 2.1.2.RELEASE in the 2.1.x series. This vulnerability stems from the server's handling of JMX authentication mechanisms where it accepts obfuscated passwords that can be easily reverse-engineered or guessed by attackers. The flaw exists in the password validation process where the system does not properly verify the integrity of password obfuscation, allowing malicious actors to exploit the weakness through context-dependent attacks that leverage knowledge of stored password formats.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the server's JMX (Java Management Extensions) interface which provides management and monitoring capabilities for the application server. When users configure JMX authentication, the system stores password information in an obfuscated format for security purposes. However, the obfuscation method used in these vulnerable versions is insufficient and can be reverse-engineered through pattern analysis or by leveraging the ability to read stored password values. This weakness falls under CWE-257, which addresses the storage of passwords in a recoverable format, and represents a critical flaw in the authentication token validation process.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access, as it creates a persistent security risk that can be exploited by attackers with minimal technical expertise. Context-dependent attackers who can read stored passwords can easily leverage this vulnerability to bypass authentication mechanisms and gain administrative access to the application server. This access could enable attackers to modify server configurations, deploy malicious applications, extract sensitive data, or perform other malicious activities that compromise the entire application environment. The vulnerability particularly affects environments where JMX monitoring is enabled and where attackers have access to the system's password storage mechanisms.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including upgrading to the patched versions 2.0.6.RELEASE and 2.1.2.RELEASE, which contain proper password validation mechanisms that prevent the acceptance of improperly obfuscated credentials. System administrators should also review and strengthen JMX access controls, implement network segmentation to limit access to JMX interfaces, and ensure that only authorized personnel have access to systems with JMX monitoring enabled. Additionally, the implementation of proper password management practices, including the use of strong encryption for password storage rather than simple obfuscation, aligns with security best practices recommended by the ATT&CK framework under the credential access and privilege escalation tactics. Organizations should also consider implementing monitoring solutions that can detect unauthorized access attempts to JMX interfaces and establish robust audit trails for all administrative activities.